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Practice fireworks safety this Fourth of July

Posted 6/28/20

With the Fourth of July holiday right around the corner, it is important to know what types of fireworks are legal within the Town of Queen Creek, how to safely use them, and when they can be …

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Practice fireworks safety this Fourth of July

Posted

With the Fourth of July holiday right around the corner, it is important to know what types of fireworks are legal within the Town of Queen Creek, how to safely use them, and when they can be used.

Not all fireworks are legal in Arizona. Legal consumer fireworks include ground and sparkling devices.

Consumer fireworks that continue to be illegal for use in Arizona include firecrackers and any devices that go into the air (sky rockets/bottle rockets, reloadable shell devices, aerials, and single-tube devices that are shot up into the air), according to a release.

Fireworks will be sold in stores throughout the Town of Queen Creek, but the town has an ordinance that restricts the use of fireworks within the town limits to June 24 through July 6. Consumer fireworks are only allowed on private property, and individuals who use, discharge or ignite permissible consumer fireworks are responsible and liable for expenses as a result of any emergency response that is required. With an increase in fires happening throughout the state, it is important to be extremely cautious.

“Improper disposal of fireworks after they are used continues to be an area of concern,” Queen Creek Fire Chief Vance Gray said in the release. “In addition to the safety precautions to protect people and animals, it is vital that fireworks are properly disposed of to prevent fires. We encourage the community to be considerate of their neighbors, especially those with pets and livestock.”

Fireworks can cause serious burns and injuries. The National Fire Protection Association reports approximately 19,500 fires are caused by fireworks each year and more than one-third of fireworks-related injuries in 2018 were children 15 or younger.

To reduce risks associated with consumer fireworks, Queen Creek Fire and Medical recommends the following safety tips:

  • Adults should always supervise fireworks activities. Sparklers burn at temperatures of about 1,200 degrees and can cause serious injuries.
  • Avoid buying fireworks that come in brown paper packaging.
  • Never have any portion of your body directly over a fireworks device when lighting the fuse. Move back to a safe distance immediately after lighting.
  • Never try to re-light or pick up fireworks that have not fully functioned.
  • Never point or throw fireworks at another person.
  • Keep a bucket of water or a garden hose handy in case of fire or other mishap.
  • Light fireworks one at a time then move back quickly.
  • Never carry fireworks in a pocket or shoot them off in metal or glass containers.
  • After fireworks fully complete their functioning, douse the spent device with plenty of water from a bucket or hose before discarding to prevent a trash fire.

Fireworks can also pose a risk to pets and livestock. The following safety tips are recommended:

  • Do not take your pet to firework displays.
  • Provide a safe area away from loud noises.
  • Do not place glow sticks or jewelry on your pet.
  • Have your pet properly identified with a microchip and/or ID tag.
  • Never use fireworks around your pet or livestock, and be aware of your neighbors’ pets and livestock.

Remember during your time of celebration that fireworks are dangerous.

If you suspect illegal fireworks are being used in your neighborhood, contact the MCSO District 6 – Queen Creek non-emergency number immediately at 602-876-1011, the release states.

For additional information about MCSO District 6 - Queen Creek, Queen Creek Fire or the town, go to QueenCreek.org. To stay updated on news, follow the town on Facebook @QueenCreek and Twitter @TownofQC.